CoGTA Minister hands over sewer infrastructure project for Emfuleni.
Current Affairs S.APosted by admin on 2025-11-22 21:27:35 | Last Updated by admin on 2025-12-04 14:34:01
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The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has handed over a sewer infrastructure project that will help residents of Emfuleni in Gauteng.
The project, which was officially handed over on Thursday, provides much-needed relief, restores dignity, and enhances sanitation services for communities that have endured sewer spillages and unsafe living conditions for years.
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs states that for many years, the bulk sewer line in the northern areas of Emfuleni has been poorly positioned, running through private properties and making maintenance extremely difficult.
This has led to ongoing blockages, environmental hazards, and daily challenges for thousands of residents.
The department announced the completion of a 2.1 km upgrade, costing R68.2 million. The project was funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) Schedule 6B and implemented by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA).
It represents a significant milestone for the residents of Boitumelo, Sebokeng North, and Evaton.
The project involved the complete upgrading and rerouting of the 1.5-metre diameter main outfall sewer pipeline, removing it from private properties and giving engineers proper access for future maintenance.
The department said the new system now safely channels sewage to the wastewater treatment plant, eliminating long-standing risks and restoring public health and dignity.
This transformative infrastructure intervention will benefit over 94 000 residents who were severely affected by sewer overflows and environmental pollution.
Hlabisa applauded MISA for its effective implementation and emphasised that the project is a clear demonstration of government’s commitment to restoring dignity to communities and ensuring that infrastructure serves the people as intended.
He urged residents of Emfuleni to jealously protect and safeguard the infrastructure, noting that proper maintenance and community ownership are essential for ensuring that the upgrades serve future generations.
“As CoGTA, we want every rand spent to translate into real, lasting improvements in people’s lives,” he said.
Hlabisa also acknowledged that while the sewer challenge has now been addressed, other service delivery issues remain, including human settlements, electricity supply, access to clean water, and economic opportunities.
He affirmed his commitment to walk the journey with the municipality, working urgently to change the service delivery realities that many communities still face 31 years into democracy.
Reflecting on future opportunities, the Minister highlighted the potential benefits of South Africa’s engagement with the Group of 20 (G20), particularly in attracting investments that can stimulate economic growth and uplift communities.
During the community engagement session, residents raised a broad range of issues affecting their daily lives.
The Minister welcomed these contributions, stating that government must listen and act decisively.
“My door remains open. We are ready to listen, respond, and work with all stakeholders to improve your lives,” he said.
He also emphasised that local communities must benefit from job opportunities, including those for persons with disabilities: “No one should be left behind when economic opportunities arise.”
The session concluded with the community expressing concerns about outstanding issues across various departments.
However, there was also jubilation, as residents showed gratitude for the completed sewer project, which has now been formally handed over to both the municipality and the community.
The Minister said he is committed to returning to Emfuleni to provide feedback on all matters raised.
“Working together, we will ensure that the urgent issues receive the necessary attention. This is only the beginning of restoring Emfuleni to the community it deserves to be,” he said.
